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Bow Street TavernA-Worth Trying

Name: Bow Street Tavern
Address: 37 Bow St, London WC2E 7AU, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.3

37 Bow St, London WC2E 7AU · Pub · 4.3/5 Google (1206 reviews)

Reservations · Outdoor seating

A lively Covent Garden pub with standout staff, classic British fare, and a rooftop terrace—worth it for the atmosphere, but expect premium prices and occasional service hiccups.

Why it gets an A- for overall quality

Bow Street Tavern delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional service attentiveness and outstanding setting appeal, particularly the rooftop terrace and quirky event spaces that make it a destination for celebrations. Reliable food quality in traditional pub fare is offset by inconsistent execution in portions and temperature, preventing the higher distinction needed for grade A territory. A vibrant Covent Garden institution that excels in hospitality and atmosphere, though not in culinary innovation.

Restaurant Summary

Bow Street Tavern is a vibrant Covent Garden pub that blends classic British charm with a modern twist. Whether you're seeking a cozy spot for a pint, a lively rooftop terrace for a celebration, or a quirky karaoke room for a night out, this place delivers on atmosphere. The staff are consistently praised for their warmth and attentiveness, making both locals and visitors feel right at home. The decor is a highlight, with hidden nooks and a rooftop oasis that feels like a secret escape from the city bustle. Culinarily, Bow Street Tavern leans into traditional pub fare—think fish and chips, burgers, and sharing plates—executed with reliable quality and a few contemporary touches like a Plant Burger and vegetarian gnocchi. The menu isn't wildly inventive, but it covers the classics well, and the kitchen shines brightest with comfort food and crowd-pleasers. Prices are on the higher side for a pub, but that's the Covent Garden premium at work. If you're after creative gastronomy, this isn't your spot, but for a solid meal in a fun setting, it's a safe bet. For families, the pub is reasonably kid-friendly, with approachable options like burgers, chips, and ice cream. However, some parents note that picky eaters may struggle with certain preparations (e.g., unexpected sauces on kids' items). There's no dedicated children's menu, but the staff are generally accommodating. The lively energy and group-friendly spaces make it a good choice for celebrations, though accessibility could be an issue for those with mobility challenges due to stairs to the terrace.

At a Glance

Standout staff—names like Sian, Vicky, and Matt are repeatedly praised for going above and beyond.
Rooftop terrace and quirky event spaces make it a destination for celebrations.
Classic British pub fare with vegetarian and vegan options.
Prices are high for a pub; expect £40+ per person for a full meal with drinks.
Service can be slow or inconsistent during peak times; portion sizes may disappoint some.
Reservations strongly recommended for rooftop, karaoke, and large groups.

What Sets It Apart

rooftop_terrace
karaoke_room
friendly_staff
central_location

What People Love

The rooftop terrace—described as a hidden gem and perfect for sunny days
Staff who remember regulars and make celebrations special
Classic pub dishes like fish and chips and burgers done right
The quirky, charming decor and variety of seating options
Group-friendly spaces for parties and events

Points of Concern

Service can be slow or disorganized during busy periods, especially for large groups
Portion sizes are sometimes smaller than expected for the price
Booking issues and event deposit confusion have frustrated some guests
Accessibility is limited—stairs to the terrace and no mention of lifts

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£31-39 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Try the Plant Burger or Gnocchi for vegetarian options.
Order sharing plates for variety and value, especially in groups.
Save room for desserts like sticky toffee pudding or dark chocolate brownie.

Perfect For

Birthday parties or group celebrations seeking a fun, central London venue
After-work drinks or pre-theatre meals in Covent Garden
Tourists wanting a classic British pub experience with a twist
Locals looking for a regular spot with friendly staff and good vibes

Location Insights

Area: Bustling, tourist-friendly Covent Garden area with a mix of locals, office workers, and visitors; lively, energetic, and central.

Safety: Generally safe, high foot traffic, well-lit, and well-maintained; typical for central London entertainment districts.

Nearby: Surrounded by theatres, shops, restaurants, and the Royal Opera House; heavy tourist and after-work crowd.

Covent GardenA bustling and eclectic neighborhood with a rich theatrical and culinary heritage, featuring numerous restaurants, cafes, and performance venues in a historic urban setting.

Royal Opera House QuarterAn elegant sub-area surrounding the iconic Royal Opera House, characterized by high-end dining establishments and sophisticated cultural venues.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday11:00–23:00 Tuesday11:00–23:00 Wednesday11:00–23:00 Thursday11:00–23:00 Friday11:00–00:00 Saturday11:00–00:00 Sunday12:00–22:00

Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating

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